Move over Banksy - meet the new graffiti artist whose stunning murals are transforming drab buildings - News - Evening Standard
       

Move over Banksy - meet the new graffiti artist whose stunning murals are transforming drab buildings

Most graffiti artists are condemned for painting on public buildings but one New Yorker is being paid thousands to put brush to brick.

And it isn't hard to see why. Artist Eric Grohe has produced spectacular murals on buildings across the U.S. transforming the grey, drab exteriors into vibrant, 3D scenes.

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Make-over: A drab building in Massillon, Ohio, is transformed thanks to Grohe's artwork

Make-over: A drab building in Massillon, Ohio, is transformed thanks to Grohe's artwork

Wonder wall:The details in the mural match the original architecture of the building

The 63-year-old has been hard at work on the walls of hospitals, factories, churches and office blocks in states including Ohio, Washington and Florida.

He uses special German paint called keim mineral paint which can last 130 years.

Each mural can take several months with Grohe enjoying every brush stroke. "Every project is a grand adventure, if passion for the work and inspiration are your guides," he said.

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Art for all: Grohe's spectacular paintings will last for 130 years thanks to the special paint he uses

Art for all: Grohe's spectacular paintings will last for 130 years thanks to the special paint he uses

Heroes: Lady Liberty cradles a dying soldier in her arms

Grohe began his career as a illustrator and graphic designer for an architectural firm.

He transferred his skill for drawing buildings to painting on them with his wife, Kathy, helping him by managing the large mural projects.

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After: This painting on a building in Bucyrus, Ohio, depicts how the town would have looked last century

After: This painting on a building in Bucyrus, Ohio, depicts how the town would have looked last century

Before: The building in Bucyrus before Grohe got to work and created the image above

He has learnt to work on a huge canvas - some of the murals he has painted reach 3,600ft.

His paintings have been well-received by the residents who live in the towns where he has left his mark.

One said of the building in the main square of Bucyrus, Ohio, which has been turned from a grey, soiled wall into a colourful scene of the town in the last century: "I used to look at this blank lot and this bleak wall and say 'no way.'

"If art is something that takes us back in time, this is a perfect example. You can almost walk into it."

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Imitation falls: This depiction of Niagara Falls on a shopping mall rivals the real thing

Imitation falls: This depiction of Niagara Falls on a shopping mall rivals the real thing

Hot work: Grohe's tribute to the steel industry and its relevance to society

With Grohe's reputation fast growing, it might not be long until we see his work on buildings in our towns and cities.

He is currently getting requests for his artwork from all over the world.

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The master at work: Eric Grohe believes art should involve, challenge and inspire the viewer

The master at work: Eric Grohe believes art should involve, challenge and inspire the viewer

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